Summer is here! Prevent Heat Stress at Work

July 18, 2017

When working in hot environments, heat can put stress on your body’s cooling system. Heat combined with other stresses (such as humidity, air movement, clothing, physical work, loss of fluids, fatigue, or some medical conditions), may lead to heat-related illnesses.Therefore, early recognition and protection is important to prevent heat stress.

Tips to protect workers from heat stress:

Encourage workers to report concerns to their supervisor

Use a buddy system, where necessary

Reschedule heavy work for cooler parts of the day (e.g. morning)

Wear light-coloured and/or light-weight clothing

Reduce the temperature and humidity through air cooling

Take breaks in cool areas

Remind workers to stay hydrated; ideally drinking a cup of water about every 20 minutes even if not thirsty